22 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Mason Jars Instead of Throwing Them Out

Before you toss that empty mason jar into the recycling bin, take a second look, it might just be your next favorite DIY project.

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Whether you're looking to add a rustic touch to your home or craft something meaningful without spending much, mason jars are the perfect starting point.

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In this article, you'll discover 22 brilliant, practical, and beautiful ways to repurpose them, giving each jar a second life that’s both functional and fun.

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#1. DIY Beach Memory Jar

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Capture the spirit of your seaside escape with a beautiful beach memory jar. It’s like bottling the joy of the waves, sun, and salty air into one elegant keepsake.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 large mason jar or recycled glass jar with lid (1 quart size)
  • Clean beach sand (½ cup)
  • Assorted pebbles, shells, driftwood, or beach finds (6–10 pieces)
  • Mini souvenir items (e.g. lighthouse figurine, keychain)
  • Twine or jute rope (12–18 inches)
  • Optional: small photo or map clipping from the location
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Pour a layer of sand into the bottom of the jar, about ½ to 1 inch deep.

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Step 2: Arrange your beach treasures—shells, stones, driftwood—inside the jar. Place the largest pieces in the back and build forward.

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Step 3: Add a small item like a keychain or figurine as your focal point. You can also roll a photo or map clipping to fit as a background.

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Step 4: Tie twine around the jar’s neck and knot it with a bow. You’re done! Display your jar where it can spark warm memories year-round.

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#2. DIY Mason Jar Terrarium

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This charming mini terrarium in a mason jar is the kind of project that reconnects you with nature, right from your windowsill.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 large or medium mason jar (with lid)
  • Decorative sand (2–3 tbsp per jar)
  • Pebbles or aquarium gravel (1/4 cup)
  • Faux or real moss (a small handful)
  • Mini succulents or faux greenery (1–2 pieces per jar)
  • Optional: label tag, twine, hot glue
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Pour a layer of sand into the bottom of the jar for drainage and texture.

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Step 2: Add pebbles or gravel on top to help separate layers and add contrast.

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Step 3: Place moss and gently nestle in your faux or real succulent for a natural, lush look.

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Step 4: Screw on the lid or leave it open. Decorate the outside with twine, tags, or wooden signs if desired.

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#3. Holiday Mason Jar Tissue Holders

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These Christmas-themed mason jar tissue holders are the kind of festive touch I love adding to every room during the holidays. They’re functional, adorable, and seriously budget-friendly.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 large mason jar with lid and ring
  • 1 roll of tissues (travel size or folded to fit)
  • Holiday-themed fabric (approx. 10" x 4")
  • Hot glue gun
  • Ribbon, mini pinecones, berries, or faux greenery for embellishment
  • Scissors or craft knife
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut your holiday fabric to wrap around the jar, then glue it in place smoothly.

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Step 2: Use a craft knife to carefully cut a small “X” in the mason jar lid center.

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Step 3: Fill the jar with tissues, folding them neatly so they pull easily from the top.

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Step 4: Add ribbon around the lid ring and glue on pinecones, berries, or faux leaves as accents.

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Step 5: Place the lid on top, gently pulling one tissue through the opening—and you’re done!

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#4. Fairy Garden Floral Mason Jar Lanterns

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These dreamy floral mason jar lanterns are pure garden magic. Perfect for balconies, patios, or a summer dinner table, they’re made with dollar-store items and a lot of joy.

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Materials Needed

  • 2 clean mason jars
  • 1 sheet of floral stickers or acrylic paint pens
  • 2 battery-operated LED fairy lights
  • Small lace trim (12–15 inches per jar)
  • Jute twine, 1 butterfly charm (optional)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Decorate the jar’s outer surface with flower stickers or hand-painted floral designs. Let paint dry completely if used.

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Step 2: Glue lace trim around the jar’s top and middle sections using a hot glue gun or strong craft adhesive.

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Step 3: Wrap twine around the neck of the jar and tie it in a bow. Add a charm or embellishment if desired.

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Step 4: Place a fairy light string inside the jar, switch it on, and set it somewhere cozy to shine!

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#5. Mason Jar Sewing Kit with Built-In Pincushion

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This charming sewing kit is one of my favorite upcycled mason jar ideas, simple, practical, and oh-so-cute!

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Materials Needed

  • 1 mason jar with lid and ring
  • Scrap fabric (approx. 4"x4")
  • Polyester stuffing or cotton balls
  • Hot glue gun
  • Needle, thread, thimble, and small spools of thread for filling
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut your fabric into a 4" circle. Add a small amount of stuffing in the center, then place it over the lid insert (top side down).

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Step 2: Wrap the fabric around the stuffing and lid insert like a dome. Glue the edges tightly underneath.

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Step 3: Place the stuffed lid back into the ring and secure it with glue.

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Step 4: Fill the jar with needles, thread, buttons, or any sewing supplies. Screw the lid on, and it’s ready to use or gift!

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#6. Hand-Painted Floral Mason Jar Vases

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These painted mason jars instantly brighten any space and bring a sweet vintage charm to your home or garden party.

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Materials Needed

  • Mason jars (pint-sized, 3–6 jars)
  • Acrylic or chalk paint (pastel shades)
  • Small paintbrushes (fine tip for detail)
  • Clear matte sealer spray
  • Fresh flowers or faux stems
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Paint the entire outside of each jar with your base color. Let dry completely and apply a second coat if needed.

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Step 2: Using a fine-tip brush, paint floral designs—petals, leaves, vines, or blossoms. Don’t stress perfection; rustic adds charm!

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Step 3: Once fully dry, spray a coat of clear matte sealer to protect the paint from moisture and chips.

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Step 4: Fill with fresh-cut flowers or faux blooms, and display them on tables, windowsills, or as party decor.

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#7. Enchanted Garden Mason Jar Lanterns

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The warm glow, little leaves, and soft twinkle feel like something from a fairy tale and you can DIY them in under 30 minutes.

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Materials Needed

  • 3–5 large mason jars (quart size)
  • Battery-operated LED fairy lights (1 set per jar)
  • Twine or jute rope (2–3 ft per jar)
  • Faux greenery or dried moss
  • Small branches or decorative twigs
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Coil the LED fairy lights and insert into the mason jar, leaving the battery pack near the lid for easy access.

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Step 2: Add small twigs and sprigs of greenery around the lights for a rustic, natural effect.

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Step 3: Close the jar loosely or leave open for more light diffusion. Tie twine securely around the jar’s neck.

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Step 4: Hang the jars from tree branches or shepherd hooks, and switch on the lights for a cozy glow.

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#8. Button-Covered Mason Jar Lantern

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This upcycled mason jar project turns a plain glass container into a glowing button lantern full of charm. It's a warm, low-cost creation made from leftover buttons and simple materials you might already have at home.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 mason jar (16 oz or larger)
  • 60–100 assorted buttons (varied colors and sizes)
  • Strong clear-drying craft glue or hot glue
  • 1 LED tealight or flameless candle
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Clean the mason jar thoroughly and dry it completely to ensure the glue adheres well.

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Step 2: Sort buttons by size and color if desired. Begin gluing them around the jar starting at the bottom, working your way up in overlapping or scattered patterns.

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Step 3: Allow the glue to fully dry (about 1–2 hours for craft glue, quicker with hot glue).

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Step 4: Place an LED tealight inside the jar. Turn it on and watch the colors glow warmly through the button design.

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#9. Boho Crochet Mason Jar Covers

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These crochet-covered mason jars bring an old-world, cozy elegance to any shelf or table. Whether used as candle holders, vases, or organizers, they add warmth with their handmade lace texture.

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Materials Needed

  • Mason jars (assorted sizes)
  • Crochet doilies or lace fabric (enough to wrap jars)
  • Jute twine or string
  • Hot glue gun or fabric glue
  • Small wooden charms or beads (optional)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and cut the crochet doilies or lace to wrap around the jar snugly.

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Step 2: Glue the ends of the lace together (not to the jar) for a removable cover, or glue directly onto the glass for a permanent version.

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Step 3: Wrap twine around the jar neck and tie a bow. Add beads, hearts, or buttons for embellishment.

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Step 4: Use them as lanterns by placing LED candles inside, or as decorative vases for dried flowers.

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#10. Gothic Glam Mason Jar Decor

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The skull-and-crossbones charm gives them an ominous touch, while the crystal-clear knob on top adds a dash of unexpected sophistication.

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Materials Needed

  • 2 pint-sized mason jars (Ball or any brand)
  • Matte black spray paint (1 can, suitable for glass)
  • Twine or jute string (about 1 ft per jar)
  • Skull charm pendants (2 pieces, lightweight)
  • Clear acrylic or glass drawer knobs (2 pieces, flat-base style)
  • Hot glue gun or E6000 glue
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: In a well-ventilated space, spray paint the jars with matte black paint. Apply 2–3 thin coats for full coverage. Let them dry completely.

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Step 2: Wrap the neck of each jar with twine a few times and tie securely. Attach the skull charm so it dangles in the front.

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Step 3: Glue the clear knob to the center of each lid. Allow the adhesive to set thoroughly.

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Step 4 (Optional): Use these jars as spooky candy containers, flower vases, or Halloween party centerpieces.

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#11. Boho Fabric-Wrapped Mason Jar

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Whether you're storing art supplies, dried flowers, or simply decorating a shelf, this textured piece blends charm with sustainability.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 mason jar (any size)
  • 20–30 strips of fabric (approx. ½ inch wide, 10–12 inches long)
  • Hot glue gun or craft glue
  • Jute twine (approx. 2–3 ft)
  • 1 decorative button or flower accent
  • 3–5 plastic flower beads with string (optional)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut or tear your fabric into long, narrow strips. Slight fraying adds to the rustic look.

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Step 2: Apply a small line of glue to the jar, then wrap one fabric strip around. Repeat, overlapping slightly, until the jar is fully covered.

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Step 3: Tie jute twine around the top of the jar in a bow. Add a button, faux flower, or other center accent using glue.

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Step 4: If using bead or flower dangles, tie or glue them to hang from the bow or twine center. Let everything dry fully before displaying.

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#12. DIY Crystal Mosaic Solar Lights

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When the sun sets, the glass gems glow like scattered stars, reflecting soft beams in every direction.

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Materials Needed

  • 2 mason jars (regular or wide mouth)
  • Solar light lids or garden stake solar lights (2 lids or modules)
  • Clear flat glass marbles (approx. 40–60 per jar)
  • Strong adhesive (E6000 or Gorilla Glue for glass)
  • Optional: ribbon or twine for decorative finishing
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Clean the outside of the mason jars thoroughly and let dry.

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Step 2: One by one, glue the flat side of each glass marble to the jar, working your way from the bottom up in tight rows. Let dry overnight.

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Step 3: Remove the stake portion from the solar lights if using garden versions, and place the light module into the jar lid.

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Step 4: Screw the lid onto the jar. Set in the sun to charge and enjoy the dazzling, starlike display once it gets dark.

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#13. DIY Fairy Glow Jars

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These glowing fairy jars feel like they leapt straight out of a bedtime story. They’re perfect for night lights, party centerpieces, or a whimsical gift.

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Materials Needed

  • 4 mason jars (pint or quart)
  • 4 fairy silhouette cutouts (printed or vinyl)
  • 4 sets of battery-operated fairy lights
  • Spanish moss or shredded kraft filler
  • Hot glue gun
  • Artificial flowers and greenery
  • Twine or ribbon (for the rim)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Glue the fairy silhouette on the inside or outside of the jar, depending on your desired shadow effect.

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Step 2: Place a small amount of moss or shredded filler in the bottom of the jar.

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Step 3: Coil and insert fairy lights inside, letting them sit loosely around the base.

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Step 4: Decorate the lid or rim with twine, faux flowers, and leaves to give your fairies a garden home.

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Step 5 (Optional): Add glitter spray or frost finish to the glass for extra enchantment.

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#14. Coastal Gemstone Mason Jar Lantern

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I made one for our patio table and it glows beautifully at night with a small tea light inside.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 mason jar (16 oz)
  • 1 bag of flat-back glass stones or turquoise gravel (approx. 1–2 cups)
  • Strong craft glue (E6000 or hot glue)
  • Twine or jute rope (18 inches)
  • Optional: tealight candle
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Clean your jar with rubbing alcohol to ensure the glue sticks well.

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Step 2: Apply glue to a small section of the jar and start pressing the glass stones in place, working your way around.

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Step 3: Let the jar dry for several hours (or overnight if using heavy-duty glue).

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Step 4: Tie twine around the jar’s mouth for a coastal touch and drop in a candle to enjoy the glow!

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#15. Colorful Mason Jar Lid Magnets

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These upcycled mason jar lids are a vibrant testament to how tiny scraps and creativity can breathe new life into something ordinary.

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Materials Needed

  • 10–20 mason jar lids (standard or wide mouth)
  • Assorted fabric or scrapbook paper scraps (cut slightly larger than lid tops)
  • Craft glue or Mod Podge
  • Scissors
  • Small magnets or adhesive cork circles (optional)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut your fabric or paper into circles just larger than the lid insert. Press flat.

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Step 2: Brush glue or Mod Podge on top of each lid insert, then smooth your chosen fabric/paper over it. Let dry.

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Step 3: Trim the excess material around the edge for a clean look. Add a protective coat of Mod Podge if needed.

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Step 4 (Optional): Attach a magnet on the back for fridge decor or a cork backing to create a cute drink coaster.

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#16. Rustic Birdseed Gift Jar

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Topped with a faux cardinal perched in a nest and wrapped with gingham ribbon, it feels like a tiny winter woodland scene you can hold in your hands.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 large mason jar (quart size)
  • 2 cups of birdseed mix
  • Red gingham ribbon (about 18 inches)
  • 1 faux bird, mini nest, twigs, and greenery
  • Printable birdseed tag (optional)
  • Hot glue gun
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Fill the mason jar with birdseed, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

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Step 2: Tie a wide gingham ribbon around the neck of the jar. Attach a gift tag if desired.

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Step 3: Hot glue a nest, faux bird, and a few small twigs to the jar lid. Add moss or greenery for texture.

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#17. Spiced Citrus Mason Jar Candle

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I love placing one of these on my kitchen counter in fall, it makes the whole house smell like mulled cider and crisp leaves.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 wide-mouth mason jar (pint size)
  • 4–5 dried orange slices
  • 4–5 fresh sage leaves
  • 3–4 star anise pods
  • 1 floating candle or tealight
  • Twine for decoration
  • Water to fill the jar
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Layer the orange slices, sage leaves, and star anise pods inside the jar.

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Step 2: Fill the jar with clean water, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.

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Step 3: Place a floating candle on the water’s surface and ensure it’s stable.

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Step 4: Tie twine around the neck of the jar for a rustic touch, then light the candle and enjoy the gentle glow and subtle fragrance.

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#18. Pressed Flower Mason Jar Lid Sun Catchers

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This dreamy sun catcher project gives new life to mason jar lids and brings nature indoors (or lets it sparkle outside).

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Materials Needed

  • Mason jar rings (3–5 wide-mouth or regular)
  • Clear contact paper or packing tape (cut to fit lids)
  • Pressed flowers and petals (flat, dried)
  • Ribbon or twine for hanging
  • Scissors
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut two circles of clear contact paper or tape per lid. Stick one circle to the back side of the ring.

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Step 2: Carefully arrange pressed flowers on the sticky surface. Keep them flat and spaced out for best effect.

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Step 3: Seal by placing the second contact circle over the flowers, sandwiching them securely.

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Step 4: Tie ribbon through the ring and hang from a tree branch, window hook, or porch beam to let the sunshine do its thing.

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#19. Upcycled Mason Jar Wind Chime

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This DIY idea blends rustic charm and whimsical elegance, perfect for porches, gardens, or gifts!

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Materials Needed

  • 1 vintage or colored mason jar (quart size works best)
  • Mason jar lid ring and chain for hanging
  • Drill with small bit (for lid holes)
  • Clear fishing line or strong thread
  • Assorted beads, crystals, old jewelry, keys, charms (10–20 pieces)
  • Jump rings or wire (optional for connecting)
  • Small ring
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Drill 5–7 evenly spaced small holes into the mason jar lid ring.

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Step 2: Cut various lengths of fishing line (10–15 inches) and string your beads, crystals, charms, or vintage trinkets. Tie secure knots at the ends.

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Step 3: Thread each string through the drilled holes and secure with knots or glue. Add a decorative ring or hoop in the center with a single hanging element for balance.

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Step 4: Screw the lid onto the jar, attach a chain to the top, and hang it where it catches the light and breeze.

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#20. DIY Faux Fish Aquarium Jar

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With a few basic materials and a splash of creativity, you’ll have a fun mason jar aquarium that’s bright, playful, and totally fish-friendly.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 clear mason jar (16 oz or quart size)
  • Blue aquarium gravel or decorative pebbles (1/3 cup)
  • Plastic aquarium plants (trimmed to fit inside jar)
  • Small plastic fish toys (1–2 per jar)
  • Clear school glue (approx. 1 bottle per jar)
  • Blue food coloring (1–2 drops)
  • Water
  • Stir stick or chopstick
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Add a layer of blue gravel to the bottom of the jar.

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Step 2: Place your plastic plants inside and arrange them toward the back of the jar for depth.

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Step 3: Drop in the fish toys so they appear to swim among the plants.

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Step 4: Mix 2 parts water with 1 part clear glue and a drop of blue food coloring. Stir well, then slowly pour it into the jar until full.

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Step 5: Seal the lid tightly. Shake gently if needed to distribute the coloring.

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#21. Patriotic Swirl Mason Jars

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These vibrant red, white, and blue swirl mason jars are the perfect DIY project for summer picnics or 4th of July celebrations.

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Materials Needed

  • 2–3 mason jars (pint size)
  • Red, white, and blue acrylic paint
  • Ziplock bags (1 per jar)
  • Large marbles or small beads (for handles)
  • Craft wire or pipe cleaners
  • Jar lids with hanging rings
  • Parchment or newspaper (for mess control)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Pour small amounts of red, white, and blue paint into a ziplock bag. Place the mason jar inside, zip it shut, and gently rotate it to swirl the colors without fully mixing them.

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Step 2: Once you achieve a marbled look, remove the jar and let it dry upside down on parchment paper.

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Step 3: Thread beads onto a piece of wire to create a festive handle. Twist the ends securely around the lid ring.

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Step 4: Attach the ring to the jar and tighten.

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#22. Woodland Deer Terrarium Jar

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Bring the enchantment of the forest into your home with this whimsical woodland terrarium jar.

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Materials Needed

  • 1 large mason jar (quart size)
  • Small deer figurine (approx. 2" tall)
  • Mini faux mushrooms (2–3 pieces)
  • Dried moss (a handful)
  • Small wood slice or bark piece (to act as a “tree” or background)
  • Miniature sign or welcome tag (optional)
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • Tweezers (optional for arranging inside)
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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Layer the bottom of the mason jar with a bed of moss, creating a soft, earthy base.

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Step 2: Place the wood slice or bark vertically to simulate a tree or forest backdrop. Secure with a dab of hot glue.

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Step 3: Add the deer figurine standing upright near the front. Position the mushrooms and tiny sign nearby.

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Step 4: Make final adjustments using tweezers if needed. Close the lid or leave open for a terrarium look.

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